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Category Archives: Relax Me

Stress only increases with age. With a full time job, friendships, relationships, families and finances to manage, sometimes you just need an escape. Whether it means packing up and leaving for vacation or a simple spa service, let me help you relax.

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Grand, but Used to Be Grander

As an avid Disney fan, I take vacations to the Disneyland resort often. For the past couple of years I began booking my stays exclusively at the Disneyland Hotel, because I love their newly renovated pool area. This year I decided to give my once favorite hotel another try. Growing up, Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa was the place we visited when we were celebrating something really special. It’s the more expensive resort out of the three on the Disney property, the third being Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel.

The Grand Californian is a beautiful hotel, with a woodsy northern Californian feel. The lobby is a sight to be scene with high ceilings, a large stone fireplace, and cozy furniture. The pool area features three different large pools, a child’s play pool, and water slide. Restaurants on the property include the Napa Rose (award winning), Storyteller Cafe, and a casual fast service restaurant by the pool area. The Mandara Spa located on the hotel property is the only spa within the Disneyland resort. It is a full service spa offering massages, facials, nail treatments, and beauty services (hair and makeup).

For years we looked forward to our stays at the hotel. The concierge service offered free snacks, small dishes, alcoholic beverages, and sodas. It was a concierge service well worth the money. We also enjoyed the proximity to the parks. The Grand Californian is the only hotel located right next to the parks. You can enter CA Adventure Park and Downtown Disney from the hotel. Disneyland is also just a few feet away. The hotel offers rooms with premium views, those being of Downtown Disney, CA Adventure park, or the pool area. A non premium view is a view of the courtyards, featuring some very tall pine trees.

While the Grand Californian was once my favorite Disneyland Resort hotel, it’s lost some of the magic it once held. This past March I planned a trip to the hotel, booking my stay way in advance and requesting a premium view. In my notes to the Disney booking agent I requested a park view. For those who don’t know the hotel well, there is a part of the hotel which faces Grizzly Peak, a key feature of the CA Adventure Park. I had always wanted to stay in one of these rooms, and made my request to the booking agent. When it came time to check in, I reminded the front desk person that we had requested this room type, and paid for a premium room. We also paid the $250 a day upgrade charge for concierge service. Instead of the room I requested we were provided with a partial view of the pool, no Grizzly Peak or park view for that matter. I called down to the front desk, and we were shown another room, but this room was located farther from Grizzly Peak with a partial view of the attraction.

At this point I gave up trying, and accepted that for this trip my Disney dreams wouldn’t come true. I did however go down to the lobby, and spoke with a front desk staff member. I asked what I needed to do in order to secure a premium view, he told me the following:

1) Book in advance

2) Do not upgrade to concierge service

3) Specifically request the view you want

4) Accept that they can’t please everyone, and there are very few rooms with close up views of the park

It sounds strange that upgrading and paying an additional fee for concierge service would prevent you from securing a great view, but he assured me this was the case. They only have a few rooms that are designated for the concierge service, and these do not feature the amazing views you might want. Later, after experiencing what had happened to the concierge service, I regretted my decision to upgrade even more. What was once a great deal, free food and beverages, was now cut back to a tea service. You can still enjoy some snacks and tea sandwiches, but the Disneyland Hotel now offers the better Concierge service.

Besides the downgrading of the concierge service, the pool area also requires a remodel. With the newly renovated pool area of the Disneyland hotel, the Grand Californian’s pool area now looks far from “grand”. The water slide has lost it’s magic, requiring riders to use their hands and bodies to help guide them to the bottom. It may be the hotel’s way of conserving water, but the thrill of the ride has been lost. If you’re looking for a great pool experience stay at The Disneyland Hotel instead. Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel also offers a great water slide, although the pool area is quite smaller.

During our stay we dined at the Napa Rose restaurant. Our waiter was very pleasant, and the service was great. The food was delicious, but do expect to pay more. The interesting moment of the night came when we were evacuated from the restaurant due to a fire alarm. We were escorted out of the resort into the CA Adventure park as we waited for the hotel to be checked out for flames. Once the issue was resolved we were allowed back into the restaurant. Our waiter served us two desserts of our choice for free to apologize for the escapade. It was an overall enjoyable experience, even with our own California adventure.

My stay wasn’t overall a bad experience. The hotel is still wonderfully imaginative. The pool area is still luxurious. You will enjoy the very comfortable lounge chairs where you can relax, and take a dip in the salt water pool. The rooms are very clean, and the amazing attention to detail transports you to Northern California. The proximity to the park is a definite bonus, with the ability to enter the park early on certain days.

Here are some pictures from our trip:

Have you stayed at Disney’s Grand Californian hotel? Tell us what you thought of the resort. Was this review helpful? Let us know int he comment section below.

Valentine’s day is what you make of it. Whether you are single or in a relationship, you can enjoy February 14th, instead of dreading it. Some of my best Valentine’s Days were spent with my best girl friends. Now that I’m in the right relationship, the special holiday provides us with a way to show each other how much we appreciate having one another.

This year we spent the night having dinner at the Smoke House in Burbank, then watching Robo Cop of all things. A romantic movie? Not necessarily, but fun nonetheless. We watched the remake of the 80’s classic at the MGN Five Star Cinema in Glendale. The new luxury theater is one of our favorite spots, due in part to the reclining chairs, and clear picture quality. Wait staff also serve both drinks and food. I will warn that the food isn’t exactly up to par with theaters like Ipic, but the menu beats out AMC dine in theaters.

Anyone who knows me knows that I am obsessed with Christmas. While many of my friends complain about the early holiday decor, I revel in it. I love the bright lights, wreaths, and garland. I love baking, and the smell of candles burning in the house. It warms my heart and lightens my soul. It comes as no shock then that I make sure to visit locations where the holiday cheer is high.

In Los Angeles there are plenty of places that put up special decor during the holidays. With plenty of shopping malls near by, there is no shortage of places to see Santa Clause. The Beverly Center is famous for their “Hunky Santa.” What women wouldn’t want a hot guy who gives gifts? Visit hunky Santa at the Beverly Center, sit on his lap, and get your picture taken. Don’t worry guys, there’s something for you as well. The Candy Cane girls perform acrobatic stunts when Santa makes his grand entrance. Want to view pics or learn more? Visit here to see what Hunky Santa is all about. The newly renovated Glendale Galleria has a Santa station right outside the Macy’s, and walk across the street to the Americana to visit Santa’s workshop.

If you’re looking for family friendly holiday cheer this season, you will want to make sure to visit the following merry destinations:

1) Disneyland

No one does Christmas magic like Disney. At Disneyland they pull out all the stops making sure you see Christmas decor everywhere you go. Sleeping Beauty’s castle is covered in twinkling lights, giving it a look as if Tinkerbell herself sprinkled pixie dust all over it. Above the pavement on Mainstreet USA hang Christmas wreaths with hundreds of lights. Mainstreet is also the location of the falling snow during the fireworks show. The Haunted Mansion is transformed into a Nightmare before Christmas. This year the movie celebrated it’s 25th anniversary, so even more changes have been made to the experience. New to Disneyland this holiday season is the “Jingle Cruise.” The Jungle Cruise ride has a special holiday theme this year. Over at CA Adventure the new Car’s Land has been decorated for the holidays. Instead of wreaths, tires are decorated and hang above the main street. Enjoy special holiday treats at any number of bakeries located at the park. Also new this year to CA Adventure is the holiday World of Color show. Expect to see Ana and her sister Elsa from Disney’s newest animated feature “Frozen”. Can’t pay the price of admission? You can still enjoy Disney magic by visiting the Downtown Disney District. The streets are decorated for the holidays, and you can ice skate with your little ones at the pixie themed skating rink. Admission is free, and parking is free for 3 hours.

2) The Americana/Grove

Looking for things to do during the weekend? You can shop, dine, catch a movie, and see Santa at the Americana and the Grove. The Grove was a Rick J. Caruso project. A little known fact is that one of the original Disney Imagineers worked on the design. The Grove opened in 2002, and The Americana followed. Both destinations set up huge Christmas trees, lights, and Santa’s workshop. At The Grove it actually “snows” once a night. There are a variety of restaurants and shops to choose from at both locations. You can get your shopping done, have a cup of cocoa, and enjoy the lights. Right next to The Grove is the famous Farmer’s Market. Enjoy fresh produce, and home cooked meals hometown and ethnic. Across from the Americana is the newly renovated Glendale Galleria with even more shopping and dining options.

3) Universal Studios/City Walk

If you don’t feel like making the drive out to Anaheim, Universal Studios is close by and cheaper. Visit Grinchmas, Universal’s Grinch themed holiday area where it “snows” in Los Angeles. Fans of the holiday movie will love this area. Universal has recreated the set of the hit movie staring Jim Carey. You can visit all of your favorite characters from the Dr. Suess book. Located next to the theme park is Universal City Walk. You can shop, dine, see a movie, play in an arcade, or dance the night away at a nightclub. Universal City Walk offers something for everyone. To purchase your theme park tickets or to learn more about the holiday festivities at Universal Studios Hollywood visit their website here.

The media is saying good bye to summer with tons of articles, blogs, and TV specials, but I say hold on! It’s still over 85 degrees in many parts of the US. It’s 88 degrees here in Glendale, and 85 by the beaches. In fact we typically don’t see a cool down in Los Angeles until closer to Halloween. Meanwhile department and online stores have cleared out mini skirts and tank tops to make room for wool sweaters and jeans.

Dear Department Store,

We can’t wear wool in California. Just stop it!

While finding summer clothing in September can prove to be challenging, the good news is that many summer items are already on sale. If you’re in need of items to stay cool in, visit the sale section of your favorite online retailer. It’s also a great time to buy a swim suit for the rest of this season, or for next season. Can’t find what you’re looking for online? Visit the nearest outlet mall. Many stores send last season’s items off to the outlet locations, and mark them down sometimes up to 70%.

Don’t know where to start? These online retailers are offering great deals on summer fashions now:

You can save on more than just clothing in September. There is still plenty of time to have that summer BBQ you never got around to throwing. Target and Walmart are both offering great deals on patio furniture, and plastic dishware, everything you need to have a great outdoor party with friends.

Don’t be fooled by the media. There is still plenty of time to enjoy your backyard, take a dip in the pool, and rock a mini dress. Take advantage of these great deals, and enjoy the heat while you can.

As a California native, Palm Desert is a common vacation destination for my family and myself. Taking little trips throughout the year is vital for many reasons. Hitting the road and spending time away from the day to day grind can refresh your mind and prep you for a whole new week.

I tend to stay at the same hotels when I vacation, but this last trip I decided to shop around. I found a great offer on Expedia for the hotel Miramonte in Palm Desert, California. I checked out the customer reviews and photos, and was impressed enough to give the hotel a try. I had some vacation time saved up, and so did my best friend Marta. Before we knew it the trip was here, and we were headed for a couple of days in the sun.

While many travel sites may photoshop images to help sell you on an experience, the hotel Miramonte was actually much more impressive in person. We exited the car excitedly and headed towards the large wooden gate doors. As we walked through the big heavy doors we could see the gardens peaking through. The grounds of the hotel are very lush, and vibrant. Many of the plants and flowers are the same types found in Tuscany.

The architecture of the hotel is unique. The buildings were designed to replicate Tuscan Villas. Each “villa” is named after a town in Italia. The lobby of the hotel had high ceilings, chandeliers, and stone worked flooring. The customer service at the front desk was excellent. In addition to the beauty of the hotel, the space boasts convenience due in part to the boutique size of the resort. We were able to walk to our room in under 3 minutes. We requested a room on the bottom floor, so that we could walk straight out from our patio area to the pool area.

The hotel was vacant on a Wednesday afternoon, which was fine by us. We had the pool area to ourselves, and a friendly waitress who checked in on us often. I had yet to open up my birthday bottle of champagne, so we popped that open and started in on our mimosas. The pool is a good size, and the jacuzzi was large. The pool temperature was great, because it was 106 degrees outside that day. The lobby shop at pool mats, and the waitress offered to have them blown up for us. We enjoyed a day of laying out pool side.

If you are looking for pure relaxation you must make a reservation at the Well Spa, the hotel spa. Often times, hotels will hike up the cost of spa services charging around $150 to $200 for a massage. I was pleasantly surprised by the prices and services offered at the Well Spa. There are three massages priced at under $150, and the purify facial is just $99. To view the full list of spa services visit here.

Also located at the Hotel Miramonte is a fine dining restaurant and full service bar. The Grove Artisan Kitchen serves “farm to table” fresh foods. The website boasts, “The menu features organic produce, fresh herbs, local ranch raised meats and poultry, fresh Pacific seafood, house-made pastas, prime dry-aged meats and innovative vegetarian dishes.” To view the menu or make reservations visit here. Unfortunately my bff and I were too sun bathed and relaxed to get dressed up for dinner, but fortunately for us the hotel does provide in service dining. Marta ordered the Greek salad, and I ordered a turkey club. We shared vanilla bean ice cream and fresh berries for desert.

We had an amazing stay at the hotel Miramonte. The views of the desert landscape and dark mountain ranges simply adds to the architectural and arboricultural beauty of this resort. I would definitely recommend it.

Every now and then it’s good to get away, and take a mini vacation. This weekend my boyfriend and I decided to pack our bags and take a last minute vacation to Palm Dessert. The drive is two hours or less, and we knew that a pool and a tan were awaiting us.

Twenty years ago my mother booked a vacation in Palm Desert. We always took little trips growing up, but when I walked through the lobby doors I realized where I was. I was staying at the Saved by the Bell hotel!! Let me explain, I was a huge Saved by the Bell fan growing up. I watched every episode more than once, so I recognized the beautiful hotel at first sight. In the episode where Jessie’s father gets married, the cast traveled to Palm Desert for the wedding. They stayed at the JW Marriott and highlighted it’s romantic appeal.

As a child I had a lot of fun at the hotel, but I knew some day when I grew up I would have a boyfriend and we would ride the boats and have a romantic dinner. Fast forward twenty years later and my boyfriend and I escape to the hotel whenever we need a quick escape.

The JW Marriott is appealing to singles and younger couples, with attractions like a lively pool and nightclub located in the resort. The hotel has changed over the years, and now features a more modern look. The lobby bar is also a great place to mix and mingle. For couples or families the Marriott Desert Springs Villas offer a more relaxing setting. The villa rooms are larger, and include either a full or half kitchen. Rooms also offer balconies with views overlooking the beautifully landscaped golf course. Each cluster of villas has it’s own pool and hot tub, but there are two main pools as well. To view pictures or get more information on the villas visit here. The Water’s Edge pool plays music, and offers activities for children. The pool bar serves drinks and lunch.

My boyfriend and I enjoyed our little getaway, and I hope you take some time to getaway and relax soon.

As I prepare to leave for Vegas this week, I am inspired to post about my love for the real city that never sleeps. My love affair with Las Vegas began when I was 7, and my extended family took a trip to Las Vegas. I’ve celebrated many a milestone in Vegas. I was at the club at midnight for my 21st, drove straight there after graduating college, and spent every birthday there ever since. Now it’s my boyfriend’s little sister’s turn. She turns 21 this week, and we’re taking her to sin city to celebrate right.

Las Vegas is a shape shifter a cameleon. It can be the city you want it to be. Most people know Las Vegas as sin city, but there’s more than just sin going on in this lively city. With critically acclaimed restaurants featuring world famous chefs, top rated spas, live stage performances, and shopping locations Vegas can fulfill your every desire.

When I visit Vegas there are a few things I have to do. Here is a list of my top Vegas destinations:

Surrender: Nightclub Encore Hotel

Attempting to get me to go to a Hollywood club these days is a dangerous mission. I did the Hollywood scene early on in my 20s and enjoyed it, but now it’s just tired. However, mention going out in Vegas and I’m always game. There’s something different about the atmosphere, the people, the music that makes it more enjoyable. My biggest issue with staying out past midnight these days is that my heels become unbearable. Unless you’re up for buying a table, or get invited to one, standing around all night becomes painful. Which is why I love Surrender. Partially indoors, partially outdoors, this club has something for everyone. The inside is beautifully decorated, but the outside is amazing. With LED lights, water fountains, and a pool reflecting light, the scenery at Surrender is worth the price of admission. There’s always a hot DJ performing, and the crowd is well mixed. Palm trees and bright lights make you feel like you’re in Miami. The best part of the outdoor area is that there are places where you can sit and rest your feet, even if you don’t have a table. Drinks don’t come cheap at around $18 a cocktail, but then again you are in Vegas. The indoor dance floor is small, but that’s because party goers can dance anywhere they like in the massive outdoor area. To buy a ticket or book a table reservation visit here.

Chateau: Nightclub Paris Casino

Located at the top of the Paris Casino Chateau is as romantic as a Vegas club gets. The Paris Casino itself is a wonder to behold. The replica of the Eiffel Tower is a wonder, and the Arc de Triomphe truly makes you feel as though you are driving around the streets of Paris. To enter Chateau you walk up a beautiful stairway located inside the casino. When you first enter Chateau it looks like any other Vegas club. The black walls, DJ stand, and dance floor are nothing out of the ordinary. Then you take a trip to the balcony where the magic happens. Located beside the Eiffel Tower replica, the balcony provides a view of the entire Vegas strip. Big bulbs light the Chateau sign above the bar. The light from the bulbs reflected on the white furniture turns the entire balcony gold. You can’t leave Vegas without experiencing this view. To book your table visit here.

The Spa: Encore Casino

I literally couldn’t believe what I was seeing when I first walked into the spa at the Encore spa. I was there to workout, but was distracted by the amazing furniture and attention to detail. The couches, the lighting, it’s reminiscent of a Moroccan palace. One of the best ways to enjoy Las Vegas is to purchase a spa service. Practically every casino features a spa where you can enjoy massages, facials, and spa amenities like hot tubs, saunas, and steam rooms. When you’re in need of relaxation the spa at the Encore is just what you need. Feel like a princess for the day at this lavish indoor spa facility. Prices for massages range between $150 and $250 on weekends, facials are priced at similar rates. The spa offers waxing services as well. If you’d like to stay in shape while on vacation, the gym at the Encore is located within the spa. The facility is smaller than other casino gyms, but features brand new top of the line equipment. You can also request a personal trainer. To view the whole Encore spa service menu visit here.

Margaritaville: Restaurant Flamingo Casino

Enough with the pricey destinations right? Margaritaville is not the destination when you’re looking for class and eligance. Margaritaville is the place to go when you need something hearty to soak up all the alcohol you drank the night before, or when you want to continue drinking throughout the afternoon. The giant volcano located next to the bar erupts throughout the day as they play the Margartiville theme song. Don’t sit too close to the giant glass next to the volcano. A dancer takes a slide down into the glass filled with water, swishing a way and getting you wet. The best nachos I’ve ever had are found at Margaritville, along with a pretty amazing margarita. These nachos come piled as a high as a mini mountain. Definitely for sharing, this cheesy dish comes with your choice of steak or chicken. Order these nachos and you won’t be disappointed. To view the full menu visit here.

Serendipity: Restaurant Caesar’s Casino

I first obsessed over a frozen hot chocolate from Serendipity in New York. I was on a family vacation, and was miserable. I had become deathly ill during the trip, and had an icicle fall from a building and hit me over the head (don’t ask). Nothing was going my way. I couldn’t eat anything, nothing tasted good, and my brother insisted on going to Serendipity because it was in one of his favorite films. The New York location is tiny, but charming. I ordered my frozen hot chocolate, because I had seen it in one of my favorite films One Fine Day. It was amazing. Fast forward a few years later, and a larger Serendipity location was built in Las Vegas in front of Caesar’s Palace Casino. The restaurant isn’t as charming as the New York location, but serves all the same treats that make the original so famous. Still nothing beats my frozen hot chocolate. If you’re in a hurry, the window located at the back of the restaurant serves quick items to go. To see a full menu visit the website here.

Wynn Buffet: Wynn Hotel & Casino

You can’t leave Vegas without eating at a buffet, it’s a staple. Practically every casino has one. I’ve heard people swear by the Bellagio buffet, the Mirage buffet, the Paris buffet, but they are all wrong. The buffet at the Wynn hotel is by far the best. The buffet at the Paris Casino is charming. I was excited to dine there, because the inside reminded me of Fantasy Land inside the Disneyland park. cobbled floors, lamp posts, and charming homes make up the inside of the restaurant. It’s such a shame that the food doesn’t hold up to the decor. The Bellagio buffet was boring, and the interior was nothing special. The Mirage buffet is great for seafood, but again nothing to die for. Then there is the Wynn buffet with it’s huge flower bouquets, vibrant colors, and amazing food choices. There are many more choices for the health conscious eater as well. Buffet prices vary depending on time of day, but it’s typically around $30 per person.

Fashion Show Mall

Located next to Treasure Island, and across from the Venetian hotel, the Fashion Show Mall has everything you need. There are plenty of malls and store locations on the strip, but the Fashion Show Mall has it all in one place. No matter how much I travel I always find that I’ve left something behind. Whether you need a party dress for going out, flats to walk around the strip in, or a swimsuit to hit the hot tub, the Fashion Show Mall has what you need. If you’re looking for a good deal check out the outlets on your way into the strip.

I hope you get a chance to visit the strip soon, and check out these incredible destinations.

One of my favorite things to do when I’m stressed is to get a spa service. My favorite destination: Burke Williams. Unfortunately, spa services don’t come cheap, making it difficult to treat yourself on a regular basis.

Tip: If you sign up to receive emails from Burke Williams you will receive specials like a 50 minute facial or massage with spa facility use for $89.

When you’re feeling stressed, and can’t splurge on a professional service, treat yourself to a treatment at home. Spending time with your girl friends can be just what you need to relieve some stress and forget about the pressure you’re under. Over the months I’ve picked up spa products from various locations. Every time I get a treatment done, I picked up a product I enjoyed. The products may be slightly pricier than your CVS brand, but they are an affordable alternative to getting the treatment done every week at the spa.

With my products stocked, I invited my girls over for a spa day. Don’t forget atmosphere is important. I downloaded some relaxing music off of itunes, picked up some flowers at the local market for under $15, and set up some scented candles. I organized the products, prepared the towels, and prepared some easy to make appetizers.

When my girls arrived we sat down to our facials, did each other’s nails, enjoyed the food, and girl talk. After an evening like that, I was ready to face my obligations again.

When you purchase the right products you can perform your own spa services any day of the week at a fraction of the cost. Sure it’s relaxing to have someone else perform the service, but the scents from the products, the way they make your skin feel, the soothing music are all just as enjoyable from home.

Here is a list of my favorite spa products:

H2V Hydrate Cleanser

My skin gets dry, especially during the winter months. H2V is a line of skin care by Burke Williams. This hydrating cleanser brings moisture back to your skin. Hydration hides the signs of aging, making wrinkles appear less visible. Use this cleanser every day, or mix it up depending on your skin needs. Unfortunately, H2V products aren’t available online yet, but you can purchase them from a Burke Williams near you. The H2V hydrating cleanser costs $38.

H2V Buff

I never feel like my skin is really clean unless I use a buff. Micro-dermabrasion facials are all the rage right now. The H2V buff is a scrub that invigorates and polishes your skin using, “refined micro-dermabrasion crystals combined with cornmeal to achieve a new level of exfoliation for the face and body.” I mix the buff with a little bit of the H2V hydrating cleanser then apply to wet skin. Steam helps open your pores, allowing the deepest clean. To achieve best results use the buff in the shower, or let the hot water run in your sink while you stand/sit nearby. The H2V buff costs $45, but should last you a few months. I purchased mine a few months ago, and still have enough to last me for a couple more months.

Pumpkin Facial

H2v Pumpkin Puree Mask

The pumpkin puree mask was the first H2V product I ever purchased. I purchased a facial from Burke Williams, and was pleasantly surprised by this product. As my esthetician rubbed the mask on my face I smelled pumpkin pie. It was so pleasant, I knew I had to purchase the product. By far it’s my favorite mask. It hydrates skin, and the pleasant scent truly helps you relax. The “beyond” mask doesn’t come cheap at $40 for a small bottle. I only use this mask once a month for a special treat. Apply the mask to slightly damp skin, and leave for 10 minutes. Always use a warm damp cloth to remove masks.

Tee Tree Face Mask

If you are dealing with pesky black heads or growing pores, the Body Shop tea tree face mask is the product for you. This affordable face mask is great at removing impurities, absorbing excess oil, and soothing skin. The best thing about this product is that it reduces oil without drying out your skin. The tee tree face mask was just listed by Yahoo as one of the best skin treatments for a deep clean. Read the article here. At just $15.50 this face mask is affordable, and worth the results. Buy it online here.

Remember to take a little time to relax this month. Stress is a major factor in heart disease, migraines, obesity, diabetes and more. In order to be your best self for others you have to treat yourself best.